August 2026
Outsiders Auto Club presents the Anniversary Mill Pond Festival – FREE Cruise-In Car Show.
Trophies & Cash Prizes!
Dash Plaques to the first 100 cars – Free Photo Station – Craft & Food Vendors – Family Friendly Beer Garden.
Every Sunday morning in the Uptown Arts District, the Farmed and Forged Market brings together local farmers, artisans, food vendors, and nonprofits for a free, family-friendly producers-only market celebrating the best of Northwest Indiana.
Barley Priest live @ Zorn!
The beauty of live opera comes to the Gardens for an unforgettable afternoon in an intimate outdoor setting. Powerful vocals and timeless music will fill the space, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Gardens.
Let nature inspire you on a short walk around the park, then create your own nature journal style watercolor art by following along or creating something on your own. All supplies provided.
Learn all about carpenter bees, why they are important, and how to live with them. Make a bee house craft and enjoy a piece of blueberry buckle.
Sip, Savor, and Celebrate Summer at Barker Mansion's Jens Jensen Garden with a curated white wine tasting, elegant charcuterie, and a self-guided mansion tour. A perfect 21+ summer evening in one of Michigan City's most beautiful historic settings.
Northwest IN best loved dance band for over 49 years!
Pack up the stroller and bring your little one on an early learning adventure at the zoo! Visit animal exhibits, meet an animal ambassador, enjoy a story and craft. $25 includes one child and one caretaker.
Live music @ Shady Creek Winery!
Get ready for AXS TV’s “World’s Greatest” Pearl Jam Tribute band. The Ten Band is the longest touring PJ tribute in the U.S. – and without question, the most authentic!
P.T. and the Cruisers @ Zorn!
Every Saturday morning in the Uptown Arts District, the Farmed and Forged Market brings together local farmers, artisans, food vendors, and nonprofits for a free, family-friendly producers-only market celebrating the best of Northwest Indiana.
Help Guardian Riders raise funds to continue to help Local Veterans, Active Military and those less fortunate. 100% of proceeds go to the cause. 6 Bands! 12 Hours of Fun!!
Mr. Countryman @ The Backyard at Zorn
Every Sunday morning in the Uptown Arts District, the Farmed and Forged Market brings together local farmers, artisans, food vendors, and nonprofits for a free, family-friendly producers-only market celebrating the best of Northwest Indiana.
Barley Priest live @ Zorn!
Marvel Comics Illustrator Jerry DeCaire brings the page to life with a live drawing performance at Michigan City Public Library as part of the Writing Out Loud 2026 series. Attendees have a chance to take home one of his autographed demo drawings. Free admission.
Live music @ Shady Creek Winery!
September 2026
Michigan City's most beloved annual tradition returns for Labor Day Weekend! Oktoberfest at Washington Park brings four days of live music, great food, and community celebration September 4-7.
The Macabre opens at The Rising Phoenix Gallery with a free Opening and Artist Reception on September 4. This group exhibition explores the eerie, the unsettling, and the hauntingly atmospheric through works by four compelling artists.
Lubeznik Center for the Arts' September First Friday features a one-of-a-kind musical performance by Joe Rauen, an artist who transforms watering cans, shovels, sports equipment, and household items into never-before-seen working instruments. Free admission.
Bart Piet Duo @ Zorn!
Every Saturday morning in the Uptown Arts District, the Farmed and Forged Market brings together local farmers, artisans, food vendors, and nonprofits for a free, family-friendly producers-only market celebrating the best of Northwest Indiana.
Downtown La Porte comes alive on the first Saturday of the month for Un-Official Cruise Nights 2026! Trucks, cars, semis, low riders, 4x4s, buggies, and bikes roll down Lincolnway from 6-9pm all summer long.
Twilight Tunes Dueling Pianos @ The Backyard at Zorn
Every Sunday morning in the Uptown Arts District, the Farmed and Forged Market brings together local farmers, artisans, food vendors, and nonprofits for a free, family-friendly producers-only market celebrating the best of Northwest Indiana.
Caught on Cline LIVE @ Shoreline Brewery!
Gone 2 Paradise Jimmy Buffett Tribute Band @ The Backyard at Zorn!
Come out to celebrate our 25th anniversary of the La Porte County Draft Horse Show! Draft Horse hitch and pony teams travel from across the country to compete.
Explore a different park with Ranger April and the LaPorte County Public Library each month! There will be a story, craft and a live animal to see!
110 Stories is a powerful docu-play presented by La Porte Little Theatre, weaving together firsthand accounts of September 11 from those who lived it - humanizing history through unflinching, personal storytelling.
Jack Whittle performs @ Zorn Brew Works
The 2026 Run for Hope in Trail Creek is more than a 5K -- it's a community stand against stigma, raising awareness for suicide prevention and mental health support in La Porte County. Hosted by the Friends of Swanson Center.
One of Northwest Indiana's favorite community events, the Dunebrook Dragon Boat Family Festival returns September 12 with exciting dragon boat races, family-friendly activities, local vendors, and delicious food - all benefiting Dunebrook's mission to strengthen families and protect children.
Every Saturday morning in the Uptown Arts District, the Farmed and Forged Market brings together local farmers, artisans, food vendors, and nonprofits for a free, family-friendly producers-only market celebrating the best of Northwest Indiana.
Come for the fun, food, cars, and crafts! Take a horse and wagon tour or a living cemetery tour with live actors! Pancake and more breakfast. $1 kids train rides, $3 a car to park!
Create your own stone-like planter. This hands-on workshop teaches the basics of hypertufa, a lightweight, durable material perfect for outdoor containers. Participants will create a custom planter to take home.
The La Porte County Symphony Orchestra’s trademarked vocal competition and fundraiser, now in its 21st and final year!
5 Youth and 5 Adult finalists will compete for cash prizes and the title of “Hoosier Star” in this high-energy event! Make sure to get your tickets so your votes counts!
110 Stories is a powerful docu-play presented by La Porte Little Theatre, weaving together firsthand accounts of September 11 from those who lived it - humanizing history through unflinching, personal storytelling.
444 Band @ The Backyard at Zorn
Come for the fun, food, cars, and crafts! Take a horse and wagon tour or a living cemetery tour with live actors! Pancake and more breakfast. $1 kids train rides, $3 a car to park!
The Washington Park Zoo will offer a 50% discount on admission for grandparents with each paid child’s admission.
Every Sunday morning in the Uptown Arts District, the Farmed and Forged Market brings together local farmers, artisans, food vendors, and nonprofits for a free, family-friendly producers-only market celebrating the best of Northwest Indiana.
This History Hour at the Barker Mansion explores the ancient Indigenous trade networks of the Great Lakes with Cecil Wilson Jr, Historic Research Specialist for the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi, tracing how these routes shaped the Fur Trade of the 17th and 18th centuries.
110 Stories is a powerful docu-play presented by La Porte Little Theatre, weaving together firsthand accounts of September 11 from those who lived it - humanizing history through unflinching, personal storytelling.
Chester Brown LIVE @ Shoreline Brewery!
110 Stories is a powerful docu-play presented by La Porte Little Theatre, weaving together firsthand accounts of September 11 from those who lived it - humanizing history through unflinching, personal storytelling.
Strings Beyond Description performs @ Zorn Brew Works
Every Saturday morning in the Uptown Arts District, the Farmed and Forged Market brings together local farmers, artisans, food vendors, and nonprofits for a free, family-friendly producers-only market celebrating the best of Northwest Indiana.
The Sunflower Fair is one of the largest area festivals, bringing thousands to our downtown. This event showcases more than 130 craft and nonprofit vendors, food, live entertainment, kids activities and more!
Public Welcome
Food & Beverages Available
The 18th Annual Fall Innovation Forum takes a free tour through some of Michigan City's finest stained glass windows.
Spend a beautiful afternoon in Michigan City for Jammin with Save the Dunes! Live music from Nawty and The Joliet Jakes, good vibes, and great company - all supporting the protection of the Indiana Dunes and Lake Michigan.
110 Stories is a powerful docu-play presented by La Porte Little Theatre, weaving together firsthand accounts of September 11 from those who lived it - humanizing history through unflinching, personal storytelling.
Nate & The NightWolves performs @ Zorn Brew Works
Every Sunday morning in the Uptown Arts District, the Farmed and Forged Market brings together local farmers, artisans, food vendors, and nonprofits for a free, family-friendly producers-only market celebrating the best of Northwest Indiana.
110 Stories is a powerful docu-play presented by La Porte Little Theatre, weaving together firsthand accounts of September 11 from those who lived it - humanizing history through unflinching, personal storytelling.
Pack up the stroller and bring your little one on an early learning adventure at the zoo! Visit animal exhibits, meet an animal ambassador, enjoy a story and craft. $25 includes one child and one caretaker.
Acclaimed music photographer Bobby Talamine sits down with Ric Federighi of WIMS Radio for a conversation spanning 40 years of concert photography and his upcoming book, Femmes at Full Volume, celebrating women and female-presenting artists who have shaped the music industry.
Craig Turner performs @ Zorn Brew Works
Every Saturday morning in the Uptown Arts District, the Farmed and Forged Market brings together local farmers, artisans, food vendors, and nonprofits for a free, family-friendly producers-only market celebrating the best of Northwest Indiana.
Butterfield Creek performs @ Zorn Brew Works
Every Sunday morning in the Uptown Arts District, the Farmed and Forged Market brings together local farmers, artisans, food vendors, and nonprofits for a free, family-friendly producers-only market celebrating the best of Northwest Indiana.
Writer and musician Eiren Caffall presents her Gotham Prize finalist sci-fi adventure novel All the Water in the World at Michigan City Public Library as part of the Writing Out Loud 2026 series. Free admission.
Sip, savor, and explore at Mansion After Hours: Bourbon Tasting at the Barker Mansion. An elegant 21+ evening in the Third Floor Ballroom featuring curated bourbon pairings with small bites by McGowan & Sons and a self-guided mansion tour.
October 2026
Run or walk 2–3 miles through beautiful dunes area spots, then kick back with a beer, wine, seltzer, or non-alcoholic beverage! 40% of sales benefits Giant Paw Prints Dog Rescue.
Celebrate the changing seasons under the autumn sky at the Harvest Moon Celebration at Friendship Botanic Gardens. An enchanting evening of live music, dinner, and community in one of Michigan City's most beautiful settings.
The King of Mars Duo LIVE @ Zorn Brew Works!
Events include a 5K run/walk, food and craft vendors, pumpkin baked goods, basket raffle, parade and much more!
Walk to End Alzheimer’s LaPorte County is the Worlds largest fundraising event. Funds raised support new treatments, research, education for all and support those who face the disease.
Prepare your landscape for the colder months. Learn how to protect plants, refresh beds, and create beautiful winter containers that add seasonal interest long after autumn fades.
All aboard for a frighteningly good time! The Hesston Ghost Train Rides take passengers through the haunted woods aboard a real steam train, where the fate of Engineer Bones Jones, Fireman Freddy, and their crew awaits. Running weekends October 3-25.
Downtown La Porte comes alive on the first Saturday of the month for Un-Official Cruise Nights 2026! Trucks, cars, semis, low riders, 4x4s, buggies, and bikes roll down Lincolnway from 6-9pm all summer long.
All aboard for a frighteningly good time! The Hesston Ghost Train Rides take passengers through the haunted woods aboard a real steam train, where the fate of Engineer Bones Jones, Fireman Freddy, and their crew awaits. Running weekends October 3-25.
Mac is back! The Dig the Dunes Mac and Cheese Fest returns to Zorn Brew Works on October 4 for a day of sampling mac and cheese from local restaurants, live music, artisan vendors, face painting, and more.
Back by popular demand, Rumours: The Ultimate Fleetwood Mac Tribute Show returns to the La Porte Civic Auditorium on October 9, recreating the band's legendary 1975-1987 era with period-accurate costumes, equipment, and spot-on performances.
Neil Allesee @ Zorn Brew Works
Our 5th annual Spook-Fest features a variety of over 100 vendor booths! The first 100 adults will receive a goodie bag with all kinds of tricks & treats. Wear your Halloween costume for an added touch of magic & check out the photo op area to make some memories!
All aboard for a frighteningly good time! The Hesston Ghost Train Rides take passengers through the haunted woods aboard a real steam train, where the fate of Engineer Bones Jones, Fireman Freddy, and their crew awaits. Running weekends October 3-25.
Celebrate spooky season in Downtown La Porte. The Downtown La Porte Trick or Treat will take place from 1-3 p.m. Saturday, October 10. Bring the kids downtown to fill their bags with candy from downtown businesses. This event is put on by the Downtown La Porte Events committee and is not to be confused with the city-wide trick-or-treat that takes place from 5-7 p.m. Saturday, October 31.
Lubeznik Center for the Arts hosts a free Family Day on October 10, featuring drop-in art-making, a gallery scavenger hunt, and free snacks - all inspired by the exhibition Kindred Spirits: Margaret Wharton and Betsy Odom.
History Hour at the Barker Mansion illuminates the remarkable story of Harriet Colfax, Michigan City's legendary lighthouse keeper, presented by local author Sandra L. Young -- who has portrayed Harriet on several occasions at the Old Lighthouse Museum.
All aboard for a frighteningly good time! The Hesston Ghost Train Rides take passengers through the haunted woods aboard a real steam train, where the fate of Engineer Bones Jones, Fireman Freddy, and their crew awaits. Running weekends October 3-25.
Andrew Scott Denlinger performs @ Zorn Brew Works
A safe trick-or-treating experience for your ghosts and goblins! Area businesses sponsor booths along the decorated zoo paths and hand out candy to the kids. Advance tickets are recommended due to limited supply. Cost: Regular admission rates apply
Vendors, music, food, games, crafts, pumpkin painting, even a face painter/balloon artist, and bounce house! Don’t forget to bring your pooch for a pet costume parade, and contest! Also stop by the Park Board tent to see some really cool, silent auction items.
All aboard for a frighteningly good time! The Hesston Ghost Train Rides take passengers through the haunted woods aboard a real steam train, where the fate of Engineer Bones Jones, Fireman Freddy, and their crew awaits. Running weekends October 3-25.
All aboard for a frighteningly good time! The Hesston Ghost Train Rides take passengers through the haunted woods aboard a real steam train, where the fate of Engineer Bones Jones, Fireman Freddy, and their crew awaits. Running weekends October 3-25.
Get into the Halloween spirit at Haunted Trails at Friendship Botanic Gardens! Kids are encouraged to come in costume for a festive path through the Gardens, with candy, games, cider, storytellers, a bonfire, and a food truck.
New York Times bestselling author Michael Koryta discusses his historical fiction thriller Die Famous at Michigan City Public Library. With work translated into more than 20 languages, Koryta is one of the most celebrated voices in the genre. Free admission.
Get ready for a spook-tacular weekend at Halloween Happenings at the La Porte County Fairgrounds! Trick-or-treating, pumpkin decorating, a chili cook-off, ghost hunt, costume contest, and more!
Step into the mysterious world of Victorian beliefs at the Candlelight Tour: Victorian Superstitions at Barker Mansion. An engaging lecture on the omens, folklore, and traditions of the late 19th century is followed by a self-guided candlelit tour through the historic mansion.
Please join on Friday, September 26 to celebrate BGCLPC’s true stars – Club members! Attendees will enjoy decor inspired by the night sky, exciting entertainment, and delicious food. Please where whatever you like, as long as it’s BLUE!
Tickets are now on sale at https://bgclpc.networkforgood.com/…/97131-blue-bash… or please feel free to contact Michelle Shirk at mshirk@bgclub.org for more information.
The Champagne Experience performs @ Zorn Brew Works
All aboard for a frighteningly good time! The Hesston Ghost Train Rides take passengers through the haunted woods aboard a real steam train, where the fate of Engineer Bones Jones, Fireman Freddy, and their crew awaits. Running weekends October 3-25.
Step into the mysterious world of Victorian beliefs at the Candlelight Tour: Victorian Superstitions at Barker Mansion. An engaging lecture on the omens, folklore, and traditions of the late 19th century is followed by a self-guided candlelit tour through the historic mansion.
Jess Jones performs @ Zorn Brew Works
All aboard for a frighteningly good time! The Hesston Ghost Train Rides take passengers through the haunted woods aboard a real steam train, where the fate of Engineer Bones Jones, Fireman Freddy, and their crew awaits. Running weekends October 3-25.
Step into the world of Erik Larson's acclaimed bestseller at Mansion After Hours: Devil in the White City at the Barker Mansion. This fascinating evening explores the 1893 World's Fair, the visionaries who built it, and the chilling crimes of H.H. Holmes.
Step into the mysterious world of Victorian beliefs at the Candlelight Tour: Victorian Superstitions at Barker Mansion. An engaging lecture on the omens, folklore, and traditions of the late 19th century is followed by a self-guided candlelit tour through the historic mansion.
Step into the mysterious world of Victorian beliefs at the Candlelight Tour: Victorian Superstitions at Barker Mansion. An engaging lecture on the omens, folklore, and traditions of the late 19th century is followed by a self-guided candlelit tour through the historic mansion.
All aboard for a frighteningly good time! The Hesston Ghost Train Rides take passengers through the haunted woods aboard a real steam train, where the fate of Engineer Bones Jones, Fireman Freddy, and their crew awaits. Running weekends October 3-25.
November 2026
Poet and 2021 National Endowment for the Arts Creative Writing Fellow Mitchell L.H. Douglas closes out the Writing Out Loud 2026 season with a presentation of his newest poetry collection Universal Corner at Michigan City Public Library. Free admission.
Join Dig the Dunes and Treasures by the Tide for their fourth Artisan Market. Free admission!
Start your Thanksgiving with fresh air in the Botanic Gardens! Guests are invited to walk the trails and enjoy the peaceful beauty of the season.
FREE community event.
La Porte Little Theatre presents Away in the Basement: A Church Basement Ladies Christmas, a delightful holiday comedy set in 1959 where the ladies of the kitchen must once again step in and save the day during the Sunday School Christmas Program.
Kick off the holiday season at the La Porte Santa Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony! The parade rolls through downtown La Porte on November 28 at 4pm, followed by photos with Santa, coffee, hot chocolate, Christmas music, and the annual Tree Lighting.
La Porte Little Theatre presents Away in the Basement: A Church Basement Ladies Christmas, a delightful holiday comedy set in 1959 where the ladies of the kitchen must once again step in and save the day during the Sunday School Christmas Program.
La Porte Little Theatre presents Away in the Basement: A Church Basement Ladies Christmas, a delightful holiday comedy set in 1959 where the ladies of the kitchen must once again step in and save the day during the Sunday School Christmas Program.
December 2026
La Porte Little Theatre presents Away in the Basement: A Church Basement Ladies Christmas, a delightful holiday comedy set in 1959 where the ladies of the kitchen must once again step in and save the day during the Sunday School Christmas Program.
La Porte County Historical Society Museum Holiday Market with over 20 local vendors.
Washington Park Zoo closes out the 2026 season with Wild Winterland Day on December 5! Keeper Chats with education ambassadors, a photo op with the Grinch, hot cocoa, gift shopping, and door prize giveaways make for a festive farewell to the year.
Christmas at the Civic Holiday Market! Enjoy festive shopping and delicious seasonal food and drinks as well as holiday activities for all ages.
All aboard for a holiday tradition! Santa's Candy Cane Express at the Hesston Steam Museum offers real steam train rides, a visit with Santa in his railroad caboose, hot cocoa, and festive fun for the whole family on weekends December 5-13.
Preserve Historic La Porte presents the 2026 Christmas Candlelight Tour of Historic Homes, a beloved holiday tradition showcasing La Porte's unique and beautiful historic built environment.
La Porte Little Theatre presents Away in the Basement: A Church Basement Ladies Christmas, a delightful holiday comedy set in 1959 where the ladies of the kitchen must once again step in and save the day during the Sunday School Christmas Program.
All aboard for a holiday tradition! Santa's Candy Cane Express at the Hesston Steam Museum offers real steam train rides, a visit with Santa in his railroad caboose, hot cocoa, and festive fun for the whole family on weekends December 5-13.
Preserve Historic La Porte presents the 2026 Christmas Candlelight Tour of Historic Homes, a beloved holiday tradition showcasing La Porte's unique and beautiful historic built environment.
La Porte Little Theatre presents Away in the Basement: A Church Basement Ladies Christmas, a delightful holiday comedy set in 1959 where the ladies of the kitchen must once again step in and save the day during the Sunday School Christmas Program.
Join for the 14th Annual Downtown Cookie Walk! Businesses are asked to prepare 200 cookies for the event in which participants purchase a collectible 2026 cookie tin and walk downtown and collect a cookie from each participating business. Cookies will only be given to those with the official 2026 cookie tin.
Join for a warm and festive holiday market experience!
All aboard for a holiday tradition! Santa's Candy Cane Express at the Hesston Steam Museum offers real steam train rides, a visit with Santa in his railroad caboose, hot cocoa, and festive fun for the whole family on weekends December 5-13.
All aboard for a holiday tradition! Santa's Candy Cane Express at the Hesston Steam Museum offers real steam train rides, a visit with Santa in his railroad caboose, hot cocoa, and festive fun for the whole family on weekends December 5-13.